Five Minutes Is All It Takes: Re-introducing Structured Nursing Assessments in Clinical Practice to Tackle Disordered Sleep in People Affected by Cancer

Kotronoulas, G. and Klingman, K. (2016) Five Minutes Is All It Takes: Re-introducing Structured Nursing Assessments in Clinical Practice to Tackle Disordered Sleep in People Affected by Cancer. UKONS Annual Conference, Brighton, UK, 11-12 Nov 2016.

Abstract

Introduction: Disordered sleep is experienced by at least 50% of people affected by cancer [1,2]. Sleep problems may be more than one, persistent and debilitating, but they are often overlooked by oncology clinicians and under-reported by patients/carers [3]. Aims/Objectives: In line with current clinical guidelines [3], our aim is to re-introduce oncology nurses to structured sleep assessments to help tackle disordered sleep in people affected by cancer in clinical practice. Methodology: We address possible concerns around implementation of sleep assessments, and we suggest the use of a validated screening tool along with development of clinical algorithms to allow streamlined management of suspected sleep disorders. Results: “How often must I do a sleep assessment?” Screening at first contact is critical, with follow-up assessments during major patient/treatment transitions to check for improvement/deterioration. “I don’t feel particularly knowledgeable when it comes to sleep.” There are some excellent resources for oncology nurses to familiarise themselves with the concept of sleep [4] and sleep management [3]. “Ok, but I don’t have a tool to use.” The Sleep Disorders Screening Checklist (SDS-CL) is a 25-item, self-report questionnaire that screens for six core sleep disorders [4]. “How long does it take?” The SDS-CL takes 5 minutes to complete, and it is easily scored and interpreted through a scoring guide. “Even so, I won’t know what to do with this information.” A clinical algorithm can be developed to help you offer advice to a patient/carer with insomnia or refer those with more chronic/complex sleep problems. Conclusions: Structured, nurse-led sleep assessments can be instrumental, and not too onerous, in the timely identification of disordered sleep in people affected by cancer. Service Improvement: Under the auspices of UKONS, a working group could be established to promote pilot testing/implementation of nursing sleep assessments/algorithms in clinical practice.

• Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Kotronoulas, Dr Greg
• Authors: Kotronoulas, G., and Klingman, K.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Nursing and Health Care